It is important that medicines are stored correctly so that they don’t degrade and lose their effectiveness.

To protect the medication in your home, don’t store drugs where they can be exposed to extreme temperatures, excessive light or moisture. Avoid storage locations such as the bathroom, above the stove or on a windowsill. Most medications should be stored at room temperature, up to 75-85°F. For example store medicines on a shelf, in a closet, preferably up high out of reach from children.

Any specific storage instructions will be printed on the medicine label or package insert so it's a good idea to check. Your pharmacist should also point out any special storage recommendations.

Some medicines must be stored in a fridge. Ensure they are stored at the back of the fridge, out of sight of children.

Common medicines requiring refrigeration include:

1. Eye and ear drops: - most eye/ear drops can be kept at room temperature for 28 days after opening. ChloramphenicolCyclopentolateLatonoprastLatanoprast/TimololAzaSite

2. Reconstituted Antibiotics: - once reconstituted most need to be discarded after 1 to 2 weeks.AmoxicillinErythromycinAugmentin

3. Tablets:LeukeranAlkeranRitonavirVePesid

4. Injections:All insulin: - Vial in use may be kept at room temperature for 1 month.Interferons eg. Pegasys, Forteo, RebifByetta - Device in use can be stored at room temp for up to 28 days.Victoza - Device in use can be stored at room temp for up to 28 days.All vaccinesCaverjectBotoxHumiraEpogenDDAVPAranespEnbrelNeupogenProcritSandostatin

5. Other:Pulmozyme Nebuliser solutionMUSE urethral application - can be stored at room temperature for up to 14 days.RapamuneMiacalcin NasalPhenergan SuppositoriesRegranex